Travels

Explore the Beautiful Beaches in Cambodia

2010-04-06T04:58:00.000-07:00

By Jimmy Bou

Despite the fact that a tourist's attention is directed towards Thailand whenever we talk about great beach resorts in Southeast Asia, Cambodia also has to offer some of the best and most beautiful beach resorts in the world. Although, Cambodia has deep cultural roots which attract archaeologists and tourists around the world to visit its spectacular temples and ancient structures, the country also has a coastline of 443 kilometers which is yet to be fully appreciated by tourists.

If you have a liking for serene and calm beach resorts where you can enjoy the sun, Cambodia has plenty to offer to you. Cambodia's Sihanoukville province also called 'Kampong Song' should be your main destination if you want to enjoy exotic beach resorts in Cambodia. While much development has been underway in these beach resorts in order to provide all the facilities required to tourists, international vacationers still haven't come to know of the beauty of this place, hence, you will not find Cambodian beach resorts over crowded.

Such is the beauty of beaches in the province of Sihanoukville that tourists journeying to Cambodia especially to see the historical Buddhist temples and buildings dating back to the Khmer Empire can't help but take out enough time to spend a day or two at the spectacular coastline resorts. If you are headed towards Sihanoukville, visiting Deum Chhrey Beach, the Occheuteal Beach, the Independence Beach and the Ream Beach should be your topmost priority. Sokha Beach Resort draws the attention of maximum number of tourists, while people looking to catch a glimpse of pure nature head towards the Koh Pors Island ,Kbal Chhay Waterfall and Phnom Leu.

If your desire to observe nature in Cambodia still persists, you can visit the quiet town of Kampot which offers you soothing natural settings. With the majestic Elephant Mountains overhanging the beach resorts in Kampot, you will get an ideal opportunity to spend some quality time close to nature. However your road trip to this small town may not be very smooth as the area still needs to be developed, but as they say, you can't have it all your way! Kampot also holds the feature of containing several French colonial structures, which is yet another reason why you should not skip your trip to this small and serene place.

You might think that you have read all that there is about Cambodian beach resorts, but that's not right as the western province of the country called Koh Kong touching the Thai border also offers you scintillating beach resorts such as La Dam Beach and Sner Beach. And to make your trip to Cambodia unforgettable you should visit Deum Dong Beach which is a breathtaking set of six beach resorts on the island of Koh Moul.

A vast majority of foreign tourists favor spending most of their time at beach resorts in Koh Kong as they can find world standard accommodation and other facilities easily. An excellent example is the Cham Yeam Resort which on top of providing you with mind blowing natural views gives you luxurious accommodation facilities. Cambodia has so many exotic beach resorts that you'll have a hard time compiling your vacations plan, but one thing is for sure, where ever you go it will be worth your money and time!

About the Author:

Learn more about Cambodian entertainment like Khmer movies and Khmer dubbed at www.KhmerAccess.com

Planning Gay Holidays to Bhutan

2009-09-28T05:42:00.000-07:00

By Howie Holben

The nation of Bhutan is a tiny Buddhist kingdom tucked into the remote Himalayas between India and Tibet. Here, visitors will discover a rich way of life that has only recently begun to be exposed to modern mindsets and Western culture. This devoutly Buddhist country is home to a distinct culture that is based on age-old Buddhist beliefs and practices and maintains a solid footing in tradition. The government of Bhutan monitors tourism closely as national leaders work hard to protect the cultural heritage and pristine natural beauty of Bhutan, balanced with allowing the adoption of modern technologies and conveniences to enhance the lives of the Bhutanese people.

However, while Bhutanese culture may be traditional and conservative in many ways, the people of Bhutan warmly welcome tourists on gay vacations, or visiting as part of a planned gay travel tour, just as they do any other guest. The number of tour groups and tourists allowed to enter Bhutan each year is restricted by the government as part of an overall effort to preserve the cultural heritage and breathtaking natural beauty of this long-isolated country, so those who have the opportunity to venture into this mystical land as part of an organized tour group should take advantage of the chance to experience all that Bhutan has to offer.

Bhutan has no LGBT scene to speak of; therefore, a gay vacation planned to this magnificent mountain kingdom would certainly not be planned with the intent of experiencing a distinct LGBT community or visiting LGBT establishments. Of course, this is not to say that same-gender behaviors and relationships do not occur. These activities are actually common and accepted and there is a significant amount of bisexual sexual behavior practiced among Bhutanese men.

Most of these men are either married to women or are monastic monks and these behaviors are not considered taboo, and do not influence how one identifies. In fact, there are no words to describe sexual orientation in this regions language; sexual expression is simply part of everyday life. A law from over 100 years ago is still on the books that criminalizes same-sex sexual behavior and allows for punishments that include life imprisonment; however, there are no indications that this law has ever been enforced.

Partaking in gay travel in Bhutan is an experience that provides the opportunity to experience a community and culture that has been left relatively untouched by Western culture and offers an ideal environment for spiritual awakening or renewal. Bhutan gay vacations include opportunities to visit Buddhist temples, hike through the Himalayas and explore sacred sites.

To fully enjoy all that Bhutan offers, it is recommended that you plan your gay holidays or vacations to this majestic land through very well. This will help to ensure that you are given the opportunity to discover the beauty and spirituality of this magnificent country, while respecting Bhutans natural and cultural richness.

About the Author:

An article about spiritual gay travel to Bhutan by Howie Holben. Howie is a world traveler for over 30 years. He runs Spirit Journeys, a conscious travel organization. Spirit Journeys provides spiritually based gay holidays for many years. You can learn more at www.spiritjourneys.com.

Blue Whales - The Largest Animal That Ever Lived

2009-04-14T00:47:00.000-07:00

By Terry Hunefeld

Blue Whales are magnificent creatures. One of the very best places to view them is on a boat from Southern California. Whale watching trips go out regularly from San Diego, Los Angeles, Oxnard, Ventura and Santa Barbara.

Blue Whales are the biggest animals that have ever lived on the face of the earth " far bigger than the largest dinosaurs. They have been weighed up to 180 tons which is 20,000 pounds heavier than a DC-10. The largest elephants only weigh a bit over five tons. Blue Whales have been measured by scientists up to 100 feet long, although today the largest average around 75 - 80 feet. They have been measured at more than 110 feet - compare that to the longest dinosaur skeleton of less than 90 feet from tail to nose.

There are many myths about these creatures, one is that the heartbeat can be heard for 20 miles which is ridiculous because nobody can even hear a Blue Whale heartbeat from ten feet away.

Interestingly, one of the smallest seabirds on earth, Cassins Auklet, and the Blue Whale, the largest animal ever to have lived on earth, both subsist primarily on the same prey: krill. Blue Whales are baleen whales. Instead of teeth, they have a series of flexible plates called baleen that they use to strain up to four tons of these tiny shrimp like crustaceans from the ocean each day.

Blue Whales have been known to interbreed occasionally with the second largest animal on earth, the Fin Whale. Four of these hybrids have been scientifically documented by DNA analysis.

Blue Whales are often found alone or with one other Blue Whale. We do not know for sure how long Blue Whale pairs might stay together because it is so difficult to track them as they cross entire oceans. Blue Whales can rarely be found in groups 45 whales if there is a lot of food (krill) in the area - however this is very rare because they do not usually form large pods like some other species of whales.

Blue Whales are fast, strong swimmers with an average speed of about 12 miles per hour with an ability when alarmed to move at speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.

Blue Whales are known to inhabit oceans all over the world. They are especially attracted to Pacific Ocean waters off California and Mexico which can host up to 30% of the worlds entire population during the warmer spring and summer months due to the excellent supply of food.

Blue Whales can be found in every ocean on earth, but experts still don't know where they breed or give birth. They are known to frequent feeding grounds in tropical, moderate and cold polar oceans, and it is suspected that they give birth in warmer climates.

Blue Whales once numbered in the hundreds of thousands until man developed the technology (like exploding harpoons) to exploit these magnificent creatures in the early twentieth century. For nearly 40 years they were hunted almost to extinction by whalers who destroyed 99 percent of all Blue Whales on earth. They became protected in 1966 when on the brink of extinction. Its estimated that there are only 5,000 to 10,000 Blue Whales left worldwide today.

About the Author:
Terry Hunefeld retired from a CEO career in 2007 to pursue his passion of going to sea to observe birds and marine mammals. He and his wife Ann own the beautiful Inn at Moonlight Beach on the Pacific Ocean of San Diego. If you are looking for a Del Mar Bed and Breakfast or a Carlsbad Bed and Breakfast, be sure to check out Inn at Moonlight Beach.

Islands You Should Go Visit in the

2009-04-12T02:58:00.000-07:00

By Matthew James

Caribbean islands are one of the centers of tourism in the world. Travelers visit here for beaches, sun, and water activities. These islands are very popular with US residents. There are many small islands in the Caribbean that attract tourists in groups. These places make people think about cool breezes, swaying palms trees, white sand beaches, clear water rum and cocktails after sunset. The most popular islands in the Caribbean are Barbados, Puerto Rico, Saona Island in Dominican Republic, Haiti, St. John.

One of the best places to enjoy the sun in this part of the world is Barbados. This island is relaxing, has great food, really friendly locals who speak great English, beautiful beaches, and clear water. This is an old British colony and there is a lot history here. There are great gardens, historic churches, and a really cool museum. If you are looking to relax, you should consider Barbados.

Puerto Rico- This romantic spot is great for newly weds and couples who want to pamper themselves in luxury and comfort. The island has many great spas and resorts. Then there is the island's natural beauty. Besides surfing, scuba diving, snorkeling and other water sports, the wildlife and adventure on this island is also great. Not only that, Puerto Rico has a rich cultural heritage and a vibrant culture that cherishes dancing, partying, and celebrations. On this island, you can spend your days enjoying the outdoors and then spend your night celebrating with good dancing and great dining.

If you are looking for a remote destination, you should head to Saona Island. Saona Island is part of the Dominican Republic. This island is famous and has appeared in a lot of Hollywood movies. The island has great wildlife and fish around it. You can swim and scuba dive as well as take a tour of the island on a catamaran. There are a lot of things to do here besides the beach so despite the island being small, you can stay busy.

The last island that should be on your list is the island of Haiti. Haiti was one the first independent nations in the Caribbean. Founded by Christopher Columbus, this island is lush with fruits and towering mahogany trees. The island is home to a lot of bird and animal species found nowhere else in the world. Haiti also has exotic and mouth watering delicacies well known to tourists who gorge on the delicacies. Most people know Haiti from the bad press coverage it gets but there is more to the island than that and it is worth your time.

The tropical islands in this part of the world are stunning. For those in North America who can't afford an expensive holiday to Fiji or the Seychelles, this area of the world is just as good. You'll find everything you could want from a tropical island here and the beauty is that they are cheap too. When you plan your next holiday, check out this part of the world.

New York Life and Bazaars

2009-04-11T04:03:00.000-07:00

By Mercie Hallow

There was a time when I overheard my sister in law claimed that New York was her favorite city in the world. She told me of her fun encounters in this city with jubilant eyes and enthusiastic expression. I second the motion. New York is a very charming city and is a place that is bursting with life and people. Every corner and every street in New York is a great place to be. New York is one place that spells out fun and fabulous.

New York is a city full of shops, retail outlets, malls, boutiques that cater to the tastes of people from different walks of life. The city is filled with restaurants, historical edifices, offices, theatres, apartments, churches, schools and also well, queer spaces. The list is endless. You can almost find anything during these events, be it a piece of jewelry, a yummy farms produce or a lovely hand made item. The city is also a perfect venue where crafts fairs and bazaars are usually held because of its wide population.

Creative New Yorkers are able to create a good business opportunity through crafting. They are people who successfully managed to turn their hobby to a money making opportunity. Crafts making is not a daunting task, as a matter of fact it is a piece of cake and a no-brainer for people who are naturally gifted with creativity and talent. Coupled with a good business sense and financial education, their little hobby can be a successful business.

A New York craft fair is always colorful, lively and fun. Numerous pieces for sale that is combined in different color and textures excite the buyers and give them a pleasing sight. The fair is sometimes coupled with a live band and dance performance which further enrich the experience. A New York craft fair is an event that is bursting with life.

New York bazaars fascinate me. I cannot wait to attend one and have lots of fun!

About the Author:

Mercie Hallow is a writer and a researcher on events in Travel and Leisure. Visiting events such as the New York craft fairs will open ones spirit on the beauty of the world beyond home's borders. If youre staying in New York, the author suggests checking out the New York craft shows for entertainments to make your stay worthwhile.

Ithaa Undersea restaurant at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island

2009-04-05T06:47:00.000-07:00

Ithaa Undersea restaurant sits 16 feet below sea level at the Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, a hotel resort in Hilton's luxury brand that occupies two islands.

Maldives is a country of almost 1,200 islands about 300 miles from the southernmost points of India and Sri Lanka.Diners eat beneath glass walls at the Ithaa Undersea restaurant. The cuisine is decribed as Maldivian-Western, and the restaurant seats about 12.

The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner daily from 11 a.m. to midnight, according to the resort's website.

The hotel recommends making reservations up to 14 days in advance at the restaurant, a great place for cocktails while watching reef and marine life above.

Celebrate Earth Day

2009-04-05T02:45:00.000-07:00

By Swift Nature Camp

Million people across America celebrated the first Earth Day in 1970. It was a bad time for the environment, their was smog and polluted rivers caught fire. Today, Earth Day is celebrated annually no longer natiionally but around the world. It was the efforts of grassroots organizations, and citizens like you, combined with the government that started this day of environmental recognition which has evolved into a worldwide campaign celebrating our environment.

The earth is in better shape than those early days yet, there is a staggering divide between children and the outdoors. Richard Louv, child advocacy expert, directly blames the lack of nature in the lives on today's wired generation. He calls this phonomenon nature-deficit order and he links it to some of the most alarming trends for our kids. Including rises in obesity, attention disorders, and depression.

Last Child in the Woods: Saving our Children from Nature Deficit Disorder has spurred a national dialogue among educators, health professionals, parents, developers and conservationists. This is a book that will change the way you think about your future and the future of your children. The bottom Line we and our youth need to spend time outdoors.

Schools have realized this for some time. Teacher Judith Millar, Lucy Holman School, Jackson, NJ, more than five years ago, began an environmental project in the school's courtyard. It has become quite an undertaking--even gaining state recognition. It contains several habitat areas, including a Bird Sanctuary, a Hummingbird/ Butterfly Garden, A Woodland Area with a pond, and a Meadow. My classes have always overseen the care of this "Outdoor Classroom", but now it's practically a full time job!! My students currently maintain the Bird Sanctuary--filling seed and suet feeders, filling the birdbaths, building birdhouses, even supplying nesting materials! In addition, this spring they will be a major force in the clean up and replanting process. They always have energy and enthusiasm for anything to do with "their garden".

Despite schools doing their best to get kids to play outside, we as a nation have lost the ability to just send our kids out to play. Yet, it seems we are learning that Summer Camps help children grow into mature adults. A new British study finds that most modern parents overprotect their kids. Half of all kids have stopped climbing trees, and 17 percent have been told that they can't play tag or chase. Even hide-and-seek has been deemed dangerous. And that dreaded stick..."will put out someone's eye".

Can technology be the blamefor the decline in outdoor play? Adrian Voce says "Children are not being allowed many of the freedoms that were taken for granted when we were children," "They are not enjoying the opportunities to play outside that most people would have thought of as normal when they were growing up."

According to the Guardian, "Voce argued that it was becoming a 'social norm' for younger children to be allowed out only when accompanied by an adult. 'Logistically that is very difficult for parents to manage because of the time pressures on normal family life,' he said. 'If you don't want your children to play out alone and you have not got the time to take them out then they will spend more time on the computer.'

Many play providers see the benefits to children of taking risks. "Risk-taking increases the resilience of children," said one. "It helps them make judgments," said another. We as parents want to play it safe and we need to rethink thr benefit of adventure in a childs life.

Examples of risky play that should be encouraged include fire-building, den-making, watersports and climbing trees. These are all activities that a Summer camp can provide. At camp children to get outside take risks and play, this while being supervised by responsible young adults.

Swift Nature Camp is a Traditional OUTDOOR CAMP in Wisconsin. Where Boys and Girls Ages 6-15. enjoy Nature, Animals & Science along with Traditional camping activities. Swift is a Nature Camp that develops a childs desire to know more about nature but also on acquiring a deep respect for it. Our philosophy is to engage children in fun-filled learning through active participation and natural curiosity.

Our Noncompetive atmosphere promotes all skill levels. Swift Nature Camp provides activities that allows children to excel and enjoy thus, giving each camper the opportunity to participate and have fun, rather than worry about results.

Out-of-camp trips, such as biking, canoeing, backpacking and horse trips are a great way to get kids out in nature. Kids love to discover new worlds and learn to be comfortable in them. This is why Swift is so much more than just a SCIENCE SUMMER CAMP.

Earth day has provided so much..but their is more we can learn from nature. This summer help your child regain their appreciation for nature by sending them to Swift Nature Camp. This is an opportunity that will be treasured the rest of your child's life.

About the Author:

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the directors of Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, traditional coed overnight summer camp serving Wisconsin, Minnesota, and the Midwest. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals & science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in programs for the first time camper. To learn more click Animal Camps

Do Not Go To Camp without Asking

2009-04-05T02:40:00.000-07:00

By Lonnie Lorenz

Here are some things to consider when visiting a camp, watching a video or flipping through the brochure. iPlease note many of these areas may affect your child's stay at summer camp. Be sure to ask the camp director if you can not find information that you feel is a top priority for your child.Summer Camp

Facilities Take careful note of the condition of the facilities. Are the buildings well maintained, or do they show clear signs of a lack of maintenance. Though well worn and rustic buildings are perfectly ok, make sure that they are not being neglected. Specific things you'll want to look for and ask about include:

Bunks: * Do children live in cabins, tents, or dorms? * How many beds are in each cabin? * Are they bunk beds or individual cots? * How do the campers choose which beds they want? * Where do the campers store their belongings? * Are the cabins to crowded? Is there enough storage space? Has the camp overbooked and crowded extra campers in? * Are the cabins clean? Are beds made by the campers and belongings stowed? * How many counselors sleep in each Cabin?

Bathrooms: * Where are the toilets? Does each bunk have it's own toilets or is there a common bathhouse? * If there is a common bathhouse, do children have to walk alone at night? Is the path lighted? * Are there showers in each bunk? * Do campers have to walk in their bathrobes/pajamas to the showers? * If the camp is coed, how separate are the shower facilities? * Who cleans the facilities, and how often?

Waterfront or Swimming Pool: * Can the pool accommodate all swimmers? * Are the waterfront areas for swimming, boating, water skiing and diving separate and clearly marked? * What kind of waterfront toys are provided? * What is the supervision and ratio of lifeguards to swimmers? * Are life jackets always worn whebn boating? * Are swimming tested on skills? * How do the camp keep track ofr swimmers? Buddy board?

The Grounds: * Are playing fields freshly reseeded and mowed? * Are the trails clearly marked? * Is the equipment in good condition?

Dinning Hall: Believe it or not this one of the most important areas at camp. Nearly 25% of their day is spent in the Dinning Hall. So the Camp needs to understand this and work to make it a clean, exciting and nutritious experience Will the camp meet your dietary needs. Don't be forget to make sure they can accommodate you Kids Summer Camp * Are there alternatives if your child does not like the offering? Is there a salad bar? * When, how and what Are the snacks? Is there a canteen/camp store? * What does a typical menu for breakfast, lunch, and dinner look like?* Is there enough space for the whole camp to be served in one seating? * Do cabins eat together? This is your child's friends. * Are meals buffet style or are campers served family style? If they are served, who serves the food? * Who is the kitchen director and what are his or their credentials? How long have they been at this camp? * What are the safety and cleanliness standards? Who inspectes the state and local codes?

Remember this article has to do with the comforts of camp and not with safety at camp. The American Camp Association has a certification program that looks at over 300 different aspects of camp. It is always best to select a camp that has been ACA Accredited. ACA CAMPS

You can learn more about selecting a wonderful Teen Summer Camp by visiting Summer Camp Advice Finding a Summer Camp

About the Author:

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the directors of Swift Nature Camp, aMinnesota Campthat's a non-competitive, traditional coed overnight summer camp. Boys and Girls Ages 6-15 enjoy nature, animals & science along with traditional camping activities. Swift specializes in Adventure programs for Teenage Campers and First Timers too. To learn more click Summer Camp

Key Pieces of Vegas Shows

2009-04-04T07:18:00.000-07:00

By Deniss Durrell

When spending time in Las Vegas, it looks like most of the experience is focused around gambling in the casinos. Though , one of the greatest points to see in Las Vegas is to take in Vegas Shows. The shows in Las Vegas are some of the preeminent in the world, and there is a large variety for you to choose from.

Perhaps the most traditional type of Vegas show is the traditional type that features lots of showgirls dancing in elaborate costumes. These types of shows have been around for decades, and are highly regarded because of their intricate showgirl style and choreography. Some of the more famous are Bally's Jubilee and the Follies Berger.

However, Vegas shows are changing. There are more than just the traditional shows that entertained the crowds of past decades. Instead, now Las Vegas is becoming the second Broadway in the United States. With shows like The Phantom of the Opera and Mama Mia! running in Las Vegas and pulling in crowds there has been a turn toward creating Vegas-sized versions of traditional musical theatre.

Another terrific form of Vegas shows is a comedy show. There are loads of good comedians in Las Vegas, and they give a great night of amusement. If you are looking to entertainment very much then you might desire to check out one of the enormous Vegas headliners.

Perhaps the most popular form of Vegas shows are the Cirque de Soleil shows. There are some different shows presented on the strip for you to pick from. Visitors come from all around the world to enjoy this awesome blend of circus and performance art. Going to see a Cirque show, you are definitely to undergo something that you have never felt before, and it is well worth the price of ticket!

About the Author:

About Author: Vegasshow-s.com. Here's the most popular type of Vegas Shows. Different varieties available on the strip for you to choose from.

Areas of Interest in Tropical North Queensland

2009-04-04T06:44:00.000-07:00

By Joseph Richards

The Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Atherton Tableland can all be found in Tropical North Queensland. Tropical North Queensland is the only spot on earth where the rainforest meets the sea.

The Great Barrier Reef is one of the natural wonders of the world. It stretches some 2300 kms and can even be seen from space .More than 2,000 species of fish and innumerable species of hard and soft coral are found in the waters here which makes it extremely popular for snorkelers and scuba divers .The whole area is strictly monitored by the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority but this is all for a very important reason. This place is so beautiful and so breathtaking that it is imperative that it is conserved for future generations to enjoy .The Barrier Reef is also home to wonderful wildlife above the water too, such as a huge variety of tropical bird life as well as dolphins, sharks, whales, turtles and sea snakes.

At 1200sq km the Daintree Rainforest, just north of Cairns, is the largest around. It is home to over thirty percent of the regions frog, marsupial and reptile species as well as sixty five percent of all Australia's bat and butterfly population.

If you drive west of Cairns you will come across the Atherton Tablelands. Here you will discover cute little towns, villages and many great attractions. This is a great place for a little getaway.

You must keep in mind the time of year you are visiting and what the weather will be like. It is wiser to travel to these places during the Australian winder (June to August) and the summer months tend to have high rain fall, monsoon and cyclones.

About the Author:
If you are interested in Port Douglas Hotels you should go to www.tropicalnorthqueensland.com. Here you will also be able to find a variety Port Douglas Accommodations that you are looking for.

Middle East key growth area for World Travel Market

2009-04-03T05:52:00.000-07:00

The Middle East region is one of the largest growth areas at World Travel Market with both visitor and exhibitor numbers increasing year on year.
This year WTM will welcome over 400 exhibitors from the region where new products and services will be launched further increasing awareness and recognition of this growing tourism region.
Along with the growth of Middle Eastern representatives at WTM, increasing numbers of visitors from around the world are interested in finding out more on the region and actively selling it to their customers. 36% of visitors, comprised of over 8,000 international senior buyers who attended WTM 2007 actively sell the Middle East to their clients.
More than 47,000 travel professionals, senior management and buyers are expected to attend World Travel Market 2008 at ExCeL London, representing regions, countries and industry sectors throughout the world.
It is this scale and calibre of visitor which has persuaded the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) to sign on as WTM’s Premier Sponsor for 2007 and 2008 and, according to its Director General, His Excellency Mubarak Al Muhairi, the sponsorship is paying dividends.
“Last year we used WTM for the international launch of our new brand and achieved huge global awareness. This year we will build on the solid foundation of the past 12 months and have major announcements in the pipeline for the show.”
“Overseas promotion is a key strategic business priority of ADTA’s five-year plan 2008-2012 which looks to achieve 2.7 million hotel guests a year by 2012 – 1.25 million more than the annual guest stay achieved last year. This managed approach to growth holds out substantial opportunity to the travel trade and hospitality investors who are looking to play a role in the advancement

Travel Etiquette - the new travel rules

2009-04-03T05:50:00.000-07:00

People are travelling more frequently and farther afield than ever before, thanks to the huge growth in affordable travel and easier access opening up of areas previously off the beaten track to visitors. The exhibitor list for November’s global showcase, World Travel Market, in London underlines how the world is getting smaller as more destinations target tourism. But does travel broaden the mind? As we jet off to distant lands and come face to face with different cultures are we really savvy travellers? Apparently not, judging by the plethora of etiquette guides in high street and online book stores telling us how to behave when we travel so as not to upset our hosts. They could be just more examples of political correctness gone mad, of course. Yet the trend would seem to show that while we are taking holidays in ever more exotic and distant lands, our understanding of these country’s cultures and the sensitivities of their people is sadly lacking. We may have smiled at HSBC’s series of TV adverts highlighting the differences in cultures around the world, notably the business traveller whose Chinese hosts order ever-larger eels for him at dinner because he mistakenly thinks he has to eat everything on his plate, but committing faux pas in other countries is a serious issue and can have repercussions. In 2004, the government of Thailand announced that it would publish an etiquette guide for visitors to try and tackle the problem of insensitive foreigners after posters for the film Hollywood Buddha showed a man sitting on the head of Buddha – deeply offensive to the nation of devout Buddhists. The poster also upset monks from Sri Lanka, Malaysia and Burma and sparked large demonstrations. It was quickly withdrawn by the producer, but not before the damage had been done. Uncouth behaviour while on holiday is another no-no which can upset locals as well as embarrass fellow holidaymakers. We all know about Brits behaving badly in Mediterranean holiday hotspots such as Ibiza or Faliraki, on Rhodes, from TV documentaries. But it isn’t just a British phenomenon. Germany’s Travel Channel produced its own guide advising German travellers how to behave abroad in 2005 after conducting a survey which found three out of five holidaymakers from the country cringed when they encountered loud-mouthed and beer-swilling compatriots abroad. Lack of understanding about what is acceptable in other countries is again a problem, too. “Many German tourists are naively oblivious to the most commonplace rules of behaviour in other countries,” the guide said. They included blowing your nose or using a toothpick at a meal table, both practices considered acceptable at German dinner tables according to the respected Knigge Guide to Etiquette. But lack of cultural understanding is a two-way street, with local residents often unaware their habits or blunt questions may offend or upset visitors. Prior to this summer’s Olympic Games in Beijing, officials from the Dongcheng district of Beijing put up posters to educate locals on how to properly welcome visitors during the Games. They advised residents to avoid asking questions about visitors’ age, salary, love life, political views, religious beliefs and other sensitive topics commonly discussed. Other pre-Olympics campaigns aimed to educate Beijingers included how to queue and to avoid spitting in the street. Silly questions posed by visitors to tourist attractions run by WTM exhibitor English Heritage take the biscuit when it comes to lack of understanding about where you are visiting, however. During a tour of palatial Osborne House on the Isle of White, the former summer home of Queen Victoria, one visitor asked if it was where Sharon and Ozzy Osbourne lived. Another asked why the English were so fond of building ruined castles.

The next level of life coaching - a travel coach?

2009-04-03T05:47:00.000-07:00

Professional coaches are a part of everyday life now. As we try to manage our ever-stressful lives we seek help from experts for everything from health and fitness to careers, finance, image, parenting, relationships, time management, spiritual development and personal goals in our lives.Now, according to World Travel Market’s Global Trends research commissioned by Euromonitor International, more people are turning to travel coaches to ensure they enjoy a personally fulfilling trip when they go away. It says time-starved travellers are employing coaches not only for advice on where and how to travel but also how to use their previous leisure time to ensure that they return mentally stronger and ready to tackle life’s challenges.North America is the trendsetter, and travel mentors are particularly popular with business travellers. The coaches examine clients’ life and career goals to plan how travel can help achieve them. They even handle logistics of trips, which can be long and often involve helping companies with sabbaticals or job relocation for employees.Individual travel coaches are also prevalent, advertising their services in mediums from local directories to online communities. The advice does not come cheap, either. A focus on the emerging trend in 2006 in the New York Times cited fees of $500-$2,000 or more per month for up to four one-hour sessions per month, in person or over the phone, backed up by emails and text messaging. One Toronto company specialising in personal development training undertakes travel coaching trips. Its inaugural trip took six women on a nine-day trip to Italy with their personal coach, the reason for coaching in new environments being to allow people to examine their own personal “environment” according to the company’s website. “During this trip to Italy, the women and Italy each provided a landscape upon which the women could examine their choices about how they treated themselves, how they felt about their beauty and, consequently, how they expressed themselves in the world,” it enthuses.As for the need for travel coaching, it adds: “When we journey into another country or culture, we automatically see that life happens in very different ways. We are reflective of our own situation, culture, beliefs and choices.”Lifebreak coaching is how one San Francisco-based trainer describes his one-on-one programme to help clients plan and take their much dreamed-of sabbatical, such as sailing off the Greek coast for six months. “Lifebreak coaching is for anyone who's looking to refresh, renew, or recharge their life by stepping off the daily treadmill and trying something different for awhile,” he says. Visitors to the World Travel Market trade show at London’s ExCeL in November are unlikely to find coaching gurus on stands of exhibiting destinations. However, travel coaching has made its way across the Atlantic. Polish-born writer and sometime London resident Rafael Wlodarski, author of several guide books for WTM exhibitor Lonely Planet, has travelled through more than 60 countries and offers travel coaching and consulting in person or by phone. Topics include advice about responsible and ethical travel, helping motivate people to plan, save for and enjoy the trip of a lifetime and discussing cultural sensitivities, “reducing culture shock and laying the foundation for a richer travel experience.”A four-star Welsh guesthouse even offers guests an on-site holistic therapist “to soothe away the stresses of the day” – in case its private Brecon Beacons garden and airy bedrooms don’t do the trick.

Top Travel Trends for 2009

2009-04-03T02:14:00.000-07:00

Authentic travel, second-city travel, and "climate" sightseeing

American Express Travel specialists revealed their top travel trends for 2009, including the continued growth of trends that have been building steadily over the past year. Though some emerge out of this year’s economic downturn, others show travelers determined to create new and fulfilling travel experiences despite the economy.

Second City Travel— Visiting smaller, lesser-known cities within a destination can yield a more affordable, though equally enriching, vacation experience. For example, visiting Birmingham, England instead of London; or vacationing in Calgary, Canada instead of Toronto.

Tried and True Travel— Travelers are expected to return to destinations that they know and love in greater numbers. Not only is it a safe way to ensure an enjoyable vacation, it allows travelers to explore destinations more thoughtfully, while giving them a true sense of costs.
Closer to Home Travel— Expanding beyond this year’s “staycation” trend, travelers are expected to seek “closer to home”, affordable alternatives to overseas destinations. For example, visiting Montreal instead of Paris.

Vacation Home Rentals Support Multi-Generational Travel— Vacation home rentals and villas that offer multi-generational families a “home away from home” experience while on vacation, will continue to gain popularity.

Value Vacations Expected to Grow— Value oriented vacations, such as all-inclusive resorts and cruise lines that continue to expand their offerings will become more appealing to travelers that had not considered them in the past.

Other trends indicating that some consumers are moving forward with their travel plans regardless of the economy are:

Climate Sightseeing— A growing number of travelers are moved to visit destinations threatened by climate change such as the Galapagos, Machu Picchu, Alaska and Canada’s Churchill, an area whose polar bears are threatened by extinction.

Authentic Travel and Niche Tours— According to American Express travel agents, demand for vacations driven by special interests will continue to rise in 2009. Among these, agents named both “authentic travel”— experiencing a destination more intensely through longer stays and deep cultural immersion— and niche tours, where groups of people with like-minded interests travel together.

Solo Travel— Travel agents expect to see a rise in solo travel due to lifestyle factors, and the rising age of couples getting married.

Five Tips to Better Travel

2009-04-02T21:52:00.000-07:00

We asked the busiest traveler we could find, John Storey, worldwide director of public relations for Lacoste, for ways any man, woman, or child could improve the quality of their transit.

2009-03-18T07:22:00.001-07:00

By Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz

Choosing the right summer activity for a teen is often more complicated than for a younger child. Yet, the rewards can be even Greater. A teenager is in the midst of an incredible growth spurt. As parents we are always looking to increase our teens emotional, spiritual, intellectual, and social Development. Teen Summer Camp programs are a wonderful way of doing this.

Finding that special summer program for a teen requires some of these basics: a safe, secure, and appropriate environment. Teenagers are looking for new challenges and more independence. So yearly reexamine summer programs as your child matures and as interests expand.

Remeber, interests, and abilities of a 13 year-old are quite different from that of a 17 year-old. So, when thinking programs, you should always keep in mind your child's maturity. Supervision in many of the programs designed for teens is less than for younger children, so be sure to ask. One great resource is Summer Camp Advice a resource for Summer Camp Information

As you know a teenager is part kid and part adult. So planning way in advance may be difficult. Yet, good programs may fill-up fast. Early registration will give you the widest range of selection.

The best way to start your search for a summer program is to sit down and talk with your child. Searching for a good summer program is a way to strengthen your relationship with your teen. This is an opportunity to discuss with your child his interests, concerns, and values. You need to talk with your teen about what each of you want the summer to be. But be ready to Listen...even if they "don't want to do anything."

Many teen programs exist its important to try to find the best one. Sometimes you have to really look hard to find the right answer. The internet is a very useful tool for this. It is helpful to know the kind of program you are looking for: sports, serving, traveling, adventure or a little bit of each.

Sometimes, the best ways to meet your goals with your child's is to piece together the summer with activities. This it is more difficult to figure out, your teen will get a broader experience for your extra work.

Rules for the Summer are extra important If you decide that your teenager doing local programs for the summer. Expectation, chores, and schedules need to be laid out in advance. This will be especially important if this will be the first summer in years that your youngster is spending at home.

A suggestion is to look at Swift Nature Camp for your Teen next summer. Swift Nature Camp is unique among teen summer camps in that we provide teens a special opportunity to make friends in a relaxed and fun-filled environment, to build self-esteem and independence, and to challenge themselves with new physical and creative activities. We realize teenagers want to do things for themselves and are bored by a "normal" camp. So we provide an Adventure Camp program with loads of opportunities cabins often leave camp and go out into the big open wild and see the Apostle Islands, go to the International Wolf Center or find themselves canoeing down the Mississippi River. Camp for Teens

Last and most importantly remember youth is limited and no adult ever looked back and recalls the good old days of just watching TV all summer!

About the Author:

About the authors: Jeff and Lonnie Lorenz are the directors of Swift Nature Camp, a non-competitive, Teen Adventure Camp. That offers a traditional coed overnight summer camp for Boy and Girl Teens. Campers enjoy Adventure trips along with in camp activities: Scuba, Sailing, Skiing and more. To learn more click Summer Camp for Teens

2009-02-26T06:41:00.000-08:00

I started thinking about how I spent money after starting coming to Singapore and thought it would apply for most of the workers and students. It was quite amazing, when I think about how the spending habits changes over time. In the first 3 months at work/school, I was spending $150 per month including (not including –rent), groceries,.. but over period of 3 years, I could see dramatic change. Having NETS card in hand changes perspective on money in negative way. Here’s the time line on how spending habits change over time in Singapore.
Two Months in Singapore
Mind calculator will be always at work. Any time you see some product will be multiplied by Kyats 850.( Myanmar) Yes, it was Kyats 850 per S$ when I came to Singapore. First week, I went to Fair Price and total bill was around $25 for 2 weeks of groceries. Second time I went my friends and it was around $60 and I used to wonder, Kyats 51,000 would we get so many stuff that would be useful for more than a month. If you don’t have a part-time job, financial aid or scholarship, then for first few months you will hold yourself back from spending. So, average monthly spending for first 2-3 months will be at very minimum.
After 4-5 months
You will have NETS card or a student credit card with some S$2000 credit limit and slowly the mindset will get adapted to Singapore Dollar value. We won’t feel the pain of paying the credit card until statement comes. Till then anything we buy is free, because the money virtual. We don’t get to see the money. It’s in bank account, we pay using NETS card, and when statement comes, money from bank account is transferred.NETS cards will be used in all places, many small purchases charged to the card will add up to big sum. Usually, it’s $8 at McDonalds, $10 at Taco Bell, $10 for movie kind of things will add to huge amount. You will be surprised to see how you had spent when the statement comes. You will wonder, if I have an extra small part time job for 10 hours in a week that would give me some S$400 - S$600 to pay my groceries and part of living expenses. That’s the phase, when every worker/student will feel the value of money. Exhausting the bank balance money (student loan, parents, income, ..)
After 6 months
Now, you should be in a permanent job (part time, or financial aid, research assistantship). Unless you control yourself with the excitement of getting a new job, your first pay check will be already spent before you realize.
Its very simple, for many months, you will be living within budget, controlling your spending. After, you get a job; first thing will be happy relaxed feeling. You will put some mental calculation, on ho much you will earn per week, per month, for 6 months. All long awaited dreams of having a nice digital camera, at least weekly once meal at Peninsular Plaza Restaurant, Ipod, … will come into mental picture. Next thing you know would beBuy cool Cell Phone (now a days, its becoming essential)
§ Ipod and Iphone
§ Dine out in restaurant now and then daily
§ Visit websites and edealinfo daily looking for new gadgets
§ New pair of shoes every month
§ Subscription to Starhub
§ Buy nice clothes
§ Flat Screen LCD TV sharing the cost with roommates
§ List never ends
So, that would be your first pay check money already spent. Most of the workers/students end up spending with their credit cards and left with additional 5,000 debt in credit card. Now having used to little lavish life style, it will be little difficult to go back to other life style. Next step would be to apply for new credit card, and what would happen at the end? Big balance in the credit cards, lots of balance transfers will go on…
So protect yourself from the lures of temptation, my dear readers.

Beach and safari holidays in Kenya

2009-02-26T05:16:00.001-08:00

By David Savage

Exotic holidays begin with the decision to travel to far off destination to experience a culture and discover a lifestyle different from our daily routines. When choosing a prime destination for your holidays Kenya should be at the top of the list. Regardless of what kinds of activities or relaxation measures you wish to take, Kenya holidays are sure to please.

Kenya holidays are filled with warm sunny days that are long and enjoyable. Tourists never have to worry about their Kenya holidays being ruined by cold, stormy weather or scorching temperatures. The climate is a rather inviting element all year round. In the Autumn you can expect short rains that may start out in a day but by lunch the sun is shining and every trace of raindrops will be gone. Spring usually has the most plentiful rainfall of the year but even they come and go quickly.

There are so many white sandy beaches that stretch for miles where the Indian Ocean meets the splendor of the Kenya shores. And if the shores on the mainland are not enough for the avid water enthusiasts, consider this: there are several spectacular islands perched atop the deep blue abyss waiting for you to enjoy the paradises they offer. So many pleasures wait to fill your senses with magical moments and awe inspiring memories of your Kenya holidays. Sunrises and sunsets have never been so vibrant and brilliantly displayed as they are in Kenya, so take advantage of this blissful trip.

One of the finest and most desirable traits that luxury Kenya holidays have to offer is the safaris! Imagine gazing across the unbridled territory and the natural atmosphere while intently watching the wildlife live so freely. Being up close and personal with lions, zebras, giraffes and so much more are a remarkable and spiritually uplifting event. Kenya safari holidays enlighten your understanding of nature as a deep and mutual respect is developed. They are very affordable and the length of time varies as per what your schedule allows. This is a favorite pastime that is treasured and desired when it comes to Kenya holidays.

In Kenya, shillings and Banknotes are the currency. If you have any questions about money conversion, the Central Bank of Kenya is ready to help you with information and advice. Make sure you pay close attention to the rules and regulations concerning foreign currency exchange. It wouldn't do to run afoul of the law and ruin such a wonderful holiday!

The activities on Kenya holidays are so diverse that everyone can really have a great time. For the water lovers there are things like diving, snorkeling, boating, parasailing and more. For the tourists with an athletic mind there are a multitude of sports to play and sport centers to take advantage of. The golf courses are spectacular with supreme architecture and a challenging turf. No matter your desires Kenya holidays have what you are looking for.

The luxury Kenya resorts are abundant and each with its own set of benefits and perks. Depending on what you want there are accommodations that can suit. Hemingways Hotel provides their guests with an array of advantages. Situated on the beach the ocean is displayed and offers a wide range of safaris. The holiday packages available are highly affordable and rival even the best five star facilities. So, regardless of charm, romantic atmospheres or how well you want to be pampered, this fine resort has you covered. It is ideal no matter if you are on your honeymoon, or taking your family on an unforgettable vacation that is well deserved.

About the Author:

Free2 has some great deals for beach and safari Kenya holidays. The site offers honeymoons and romantic holidays to some of the most exotic destinations around the world. All Kenya holidays and honeymoons fully ATOL protected.

Mississippi Cruise Options For Lovers Of Themed Travel

2009-02-26T02:37:00.001-08:00

By Anthony Herbert

The river cruise has become a very trendy kind of vacation today, and especially so on the Mississippi. Whether it is just for a short few hours, for a week or even a month, a boat cruise can be a very exhilarating as well as tranquil holiday.

There are many different alternatives to bear in mind when organizing a Mississippi river cruise. Mostly, these pertain the amount of time that you want to spend on the river, on whether you intend to travel alone or with other people, be it friends, family or possibly even business associates, and the kind of cruise that you want to undertake.

As you may well know the Mississippi river is over two thousand miles long and is navigable for most of its course by cruise ships, so there are very different trips that can be made, from the swampy delta of Louisiana to the wooded landscape of Minnesota.

There are different types of vessels that you can take on a Mississippi river cruise, from luxuriously refurbished steamboats of old to newer self-catering houseboats and small modern motor yachts.

If you choose a steamboat, you will not be spoilt for choice as many of the bigger Mississippi river cruise boats have saloons, gambling malls, restaurants, spas and so forth. And of course, there are plenty of onshore activities to choose from, from sightseeing to golfing.

Many of the bigger boats include a lot of activities and events on the Mississippi river cruise, which can make the trip very suitable for young adults. But there are activities for families and more mature people as well. From bird-watching to gourmet dinners and dance evenings on the river, there are options for everyone's tastes.

Many Mississippi river cruises follow a distinct theme throughout the trip, and both the on-shore sightseeing and the on-board entertainment are geared towards the themes. Whether you are a naturalist, a civil war buff, a jazz lover, a nostalgic for the days of steamboats and railroads, or an architecture fan, you will be able to find the cruise that interests you.

If you take a longer trip, you will be able to fully immerse yourself into the atmosphere of Mississippi river cruises and will travel one way between two different destinations. Shorter trips will be round trips, but they will be just a engrossing.

Mississippi river cruises are also for all budgets. You can get a no-frills transport and eat cheaply onshore, or even hire your own small boat. But if you are so inclined, you can also travel on the more luxurious boats and enjoy a very lavish holiday.

So what are you waiting for? Use the available resources on the Internet to further research Mississippi river cruises, and then book the trip that suits you best at one of the many specialized travel agencies. You will love the experience!

About the Author:

MississippiCruiseGuide.com has the answers to all the questions that you were afraid to ask about Mississippi cruises! Check out the site to make sure that you are in the know about Mississippi travels.

Elephant Polo: The Sport of Kings

2009-02-23T02:22:00.001-08:00

By Christopher Linch

One thing I must do before I kick the proverbial "bucket" is to see an Elephant Polo game. Elephant Polo, as you might guess, is a variant of polo played aboard an elephant. The home of the game is Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge, Nepal, but can also be found in Thailand, Sri Lanka, India and England. New York has a team: the Blues. Treetops is the home of the World Elephant Polo Championships. The 2008 Champions were England's "Air Tuskers".

Basic polo equipment is used, although the mallet is modified to reach from the back of the elephant to the ground, some six to nine feet. The field or "pitch" is shorter than a standard polo field (the reasons for this will be discussed in a moment). Due to the difficulty in steering perhaps, each elephant has two riders. The first is the "mahout". Familiar to us from Rudyard Kipling novels, this is the guy who rides on the elephant's head and encourages both movement and direction. The second rider actually plays the game by whacking the ball and calling out directions to the mahout.

The game was apparently a favorite of the British Colonial period in India, and reemerged after a heavy evening of drinking by the owner of Tiger Tops and his cronies. Some celebrity adherents of the game include Ringo Starr, Bryan Ferry of Roxie Music, the actor Steven Seagal, and the late adventurer Sir Edmund Hillary.

The World Elephant Polo Association governs the play in Nepal and Thailand. The WEPA strictly enforces rules regarding elephant welfare and game play. Other tournaments are managed independently. Most games are played today for charity. Aside from winning the game, other prizes include Best Dressed Team. Any excuse for champagne will do.

The game is played under the auspices of the World Elephant Polo Association (and yes, you can get a polo shirt!) which governs the play in Nepal and Thailand. The rules regarding elephant welfare are strictly enforced. Tournaments are not lengthy, and generally are played for charity once a year. Other prizes eagerly anticipated include the coveted Best Dressed Team Award.

Tiger Tops Jungle Lodge is an award winning wildlife safari and eco lodge in the heart of Chitwan National park. The Lodge is noted for it's eco-tourism model, it's conservation activism, it's organic cuisine and it's tree house accommodations. The lodge offers elephant safaris to view Bengal Tigers, Bison and Rhinoceros,.

The championships are usually scheduled at the end of November and beginning of December.

About the Author:

We are constantly finding hotels with Cheap Hotel Rates. If you need to book a hotel stop by our site today.

Luxury Safaris; A Once In A Lifetime Holiday

2009-02-22T03:20:00.001-08:00

By Paul Reynolds

Have you ever considered what luxury safaris really entail? Have you ever really sat down and thought about what you could experience by taking authentic luxury Tanzania safaris? Here is a hint: the key part of those sentences is the "luxury" part. Most of us do not think of anything luxurious when we think about safaris. If we do, we probably think that it would be too expensive to even seriously consider. However, you might want to reconsider those ideas.

Going on a safari in Africa is truly a once in a life time opportunity. It is one of those holidays about which many of us can only dream because we think it is so far out of our reach or our budget. However, going on a luxury safari is becoming a reality for a lot of people these days. Contrary to what you might be thinking about safaris in general, it is entirely possible to enjoy a luxury one. You do not have to rough it; you will not be left in the wilds of Africa with just a tent to protect you.

The idea of a luxury holiday means a lot to a great many people. On a luxury safari, however, that is just part of the appeal. Imagine all of the things you will be able to see on safari. The opportunity to see exquisite, intriguing wild animals in their natural habitats does not come around that often. When you consider how breathtakingly beautiful those habitats are, you will see even more appeal.

It is easier than ever to go on a luxurious safari. This is due to the increasing number of travel companies offering safari services. You do not have to worry about roughing it with these companies either. They know how to cater to travelers who want a little luxury. However, everything is still completely authentic.

These companies know how to give their clients a memorable experience. That is what they are there to do. It does not matter how high your expectations are. The company you choose will do its very best to exceed them. One of the ways they do this is by employing locals to give you an authentic experience on your safari.

You will be able to take your safari in any number of ways. Can you imagine, for instance, touring the Tanzanian countryside on the back of a horse? You will be able to see things you would never notice if you were in a car or a jeep. A lot of companies also offer relaxing boating safaris, where you float gently down rivers and enjoy the scenery. These two options are also better for the animals you see. They will not be scared by the noises of a car.

Do not worry if you are not a skilled equestrian. It is not necessary. Your guides will be there to help you with that. All you have to do is enjoy your amazing vantage point. This will also provide you with the opportunity to take lots of pictures and videos so you remember your trip. Furthermore, your safety is always insured.

To put it quite simply, taking a luxurious African safari can really be illuminating. It will open your eyes to new culture and a new way of life. It will definitely be something to remember for the rest of your life.

2009-01-20T15:12:00.001-08:00

By Monique Mertrandes

The fascinating view of the Ten Mile Range is guaranteed to captivate anyone's attention and it's just one of the reasons to plan a trip to Breckenridge. Certainly, the outdoor activities and endless forms of recreation are also what draws visitors to this mountain town. Still, Breckenridge seems to put on a new face every time the town comes together in celebration. In Breckenridge, there's always something to celebrate so it is always nice to consider a trip to Colorado's 149-year-old Victorian paradise and have fun.

Perhaps there's no better way to greet the New Year in Breckenridge than with the Budweiser International Snow Sculpture Championships thanks to the Breckenridge Ski Resort. This annual event, now in its 18th year, calls upon only the most innovative artists to transform a blank canvass of snow into a masterpiece. Sculptors coming from all over the world virtually take over the town for five days to create spectacular twenty-ton, twelve-foot tall snow sculptures with just their bare hands and a few permitted non-power tools such as carrot scraper and chicken wire. A panel of judges then present awards to the top three teams using theme, technique, and style as criteria. Championships are held in the middle of town at the Riverwalk Center from January 20-25, 2009.

There's always a reason for jubilation after a marvelous ski season and Breckenridge knows this better than any other town. The Spring Massive is held each year to express joy in the year's snow fall. This event always makes it easy for anyone attending to have a good time, whether it's through live entertainment or just a day of spring skiing. Planned happenings include free outdoor concerts, ski competitions, the Massive Beer Festival, Comedy, and a Bite of Breckenridge. The eighth annual festival will be held from April 1-19, 2009.

The 25th Genuine Jazz and Arts Festival in Breckenridge offers wine tasting, hot music, and exotic summer nights. People all over town come together every year for this free event in the Plaza above Maggie Pond when various performers are invited to play all genres of jazz including smooth jazz, fusion, and mainstream. This event is usually held during a weekend in August.

Towns all over the country join together in the fall to honor the traditional German celebration of Oktoberfest. Offering traditional German music, Bavarian food, kids' activities, and, of course, plenty of beer, Breckenridge Oktoberfest is in its fifteenth year now. So, from September 18-20, 2009, grab your beer stein, pull on your lederhosen and head to Breckenridge for some marvelous mountain enjoyment.

Winter certainly brings a reason to celebrate in genuine Breckenridge style. The start of December marks the official announcement of Breckenridge that the holiday season has arrived with its Victorian Holiday celebration. Competitions on the Breckenridge Ski Resort and craft workshops are held and of course, the holiday season would not be complete without the yearly Lighting of Breckenridge on Main Street.

All of the events in Breckenridge take place in the center of the town so it would be easy for you to find Breckenridge accommodations near the venue. There are also free shuttles that would transport you to the location conveniently. There are many reasons to celebrate in Breckenridge that are guaranteed to entertain you and make your visit memorable. Plan your family vacation in Breckenridge to experience the unique and jovial celebrations of the town.

About the Author:

Having lived in Breckenridge Colorado and all over Summit County since she was four years old, Monique Mertrandes grew up hiking, biking, skiing, rock climbing, kayaking, and playing tour guide to visiting friends and family. Learn more about Breckenridge Lodging from other locals like Monique.